Country Director (India)

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Country Head (India) will establish a strong local presence for WISER and lead its strategic expansion in India, building on WISER’s successful launch in Andhra Pradesh. This role is responsible for translating WISER’s global model into a scalable India-specific execution framework spanning talent development, education, research, and industry collaboration.

WHO YOU ARE:

15+ years of experience in government engagement, higher education leadership, technology programs, or innovation ecosystems.

Demonstrated experience working with state and/or central government agencies in India.

Proven ability to build and manage partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry.

Strong understanding of India’s higher education, skill development, and innovation ecosystem.

Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder-management skills.

COMPENSATION:

Salary commensurate with experience.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Strategic Leadership & Representation

Serve as WISER’s senior on-ground leader in India, representing the organization with state and central government ministries, regulatory bodies, and public-sector stakeholders.

Act as the primary interface with the Government of Andhra Pradesh and support expansion into additional states.

Translate WISER’s global strategy into a scalable India-specific execution roadmap.

Government & Policy Engagement

Build and manage long-term relationships with key state and central government departments, including science & technology, higher education, IT, skill development, and industry.

Support the structuring and execution of MoUs, PPPs, and government-backed programs aligned with India’s national and state quantum missions.

Coordinate with policymakers to ensure alignment with workforce, research, and innovation priorities.

Talent Hub & Program Delivery

Lead the development and execution of the Quantum Talent Hub, spanning education, workforce development, applied research, and startup enablement.

Oversee large-scale education and training programs delivering:

Foundational quantum literacy at scale

Advanced, industry-ready technical training

Elite research, entrepreneurship, and leadership pathways

Support the creation of a global quantum R&D hub 

Operations, Growth & Reporting

Build and manage a small local team and partner network to support program execution.

Track progress against defined targets, KPIs, and impact metrics.

Provide regular reporting to WISER’s global leadership on progress, risks, and opportunities.